Colorectal Cancer Symptoms

Posted: March 1, 2005

Cancer of the colon and rectum is a silent disease that usually develops without symptoms. The early stages generally have no warning signs, but the following symptoms have been associated with cancer and need to be discussed with your doctor:

• A change in bowel habits
• Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
• Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool
• Stools that are narrower than usual
• General abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, and/or cramps)
• Weight loss with no known reason
• Constant tiredness
• Nausea and vomiting

Other health problems can cause the same symptoms. Anyone with these symptoms should see a doctor so that any problem can be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Source: National Cancer Institute

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